Jubilee Secretary General Raphael Tuju is one of the surprise inclusion in Raila Odinga's political advisory team that was reconstituted months after handshake, it has been established.
With Siaya Senator James Orengo now confined to his Senate Minority leadership roles, Tuju, who has since reconciled with Raila, is considered as a close confidant ahead of 2022 polls.
A source privy to Raila's political maneuvers says Mr Tuju along with Suna East MP Junet Mohammed are lately the most dependable advisers of Mr Odinga on matters politics.
"Orengo is in charge of parliament troops this his absence. Mr Tuju and Junet Mohammed are playing key roles in Raila's advisory team lately," said the source.
Last year, Mr Mohammed was the only high profile politician who was privy to the peace deal brokered between Mr Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta that caught many of their respective confidants unaware.
Also brought on board is Ida Odinga, another proponent of the historical handshake. Mrs Odinga is working with Mohammed, Tuju and seasoned advisor Prof Anyang Nyong'o.
"Prof Anyang Nyong'o and Ida Odinga are also in the team. They have been part of the team that fostered the handshake," the source added.
Last week, Tuju, who lost the Rarieda seat in 2007 after differing with Raila, cleared speculations that Deputy President William Ruto would be automatic flag bearer of the Jubilee party in 2022, a sign of his rebellion towards Mr Ruto.
Missing from the list are Dr Oburu Oginga, John Mbadi, Senator Amos Wako, lawyer Otiende Amollo, Hassan Joho and Governor Wycliffe Oparanya of Kakamega.
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